WHITING — The Vermont Health Department says aerial spraying of a pesticide is planned in southern Addison County after Eastern equine encephalitis has been detected in more mosquitoes.

The spraying will take place Thursday and next Tuesday around a swampy area in Whiting, weather permitting.

Health Commissioner Harry Chen says spraying may reduce the risk of infection, but warns it’s still important to take precautions against mosquito bites.

EEE was found for the first time in Vermont mosquitoes last year. Two people contracted the illness and later died. Mosquitoes have also tested positive for West Nile virus in Addison, Rutland and Franklin counties.

No human or animal cases of either disease have been reported this year.